Latest news with #Windstar
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Travel + Leisure
13-07-2025
- Travel + Leisure
I Spent 7 Weeks in Europe With Just a Carry-on, and These Are the 10 Dresses I Wore on Repeat — From $23
One of my life's biggest regrets is not studying abroad in college and not reaching for that elusive chance for total immersion into another culture during a semester away. Though I've been able to make up for it post-graduation with nearly 20 trips to Europe, from family jaunts to Italy and conferences in Riga, Latvia to posh London stays, it has still felt like there was always a little something missing. Enter: my self-coined 'adult study abroad summer,' when I connected a string of work trips with some personal exploration for a full seven weeks away from home. This seven-nation European swing began with a memorable mother-daughter Adriatic cruise with Viking, then a group trip to the Republic of Georgia, a self-guided Balkan adventure through Albania, Corfu, and North Macedonia, and finally a luxurious sail around the Greek Isles with Windstar. As the captain of Team Carry-on-only, it was a delicate dance to properly pack for the weather, plus a mix of casual and more formal events and destinations. Luckily, I was able to curate the perfect wardrobe with a slew of versatile travel dresses for every possible occasion. Sightseeing at a museum? Check. Michelin-star dinner out? Covered. Walking day exploring a new city? Done. Below are the 10 dresses I suggest packing for the ultimate European summer vacation. Is there a fabric more iconic, cooling, and chic than linen in the summer? I think not. I wore my lovely linen-blend Alex Mill shirtdress, which is no longer in stock, everywhere from a Greek olive oil tasting in Monemvasia via Windstar to a casual lakeside dinner of Ohrid trout in North Macedonia, but you can achieve the same look with this version from it's on mega sale and available in black or olive in case you're not sold on white (pasta stains, oh me oh my). Pro tip: Consider adding a linen blazer to the mix, too. It'll be an elegant, lightweight jacket option that's easy to pack (and mix and match). Americans love athleisure, a trend that's been slower to catch on across the pond. While I wouldn't recommend sporting that leggings set out and about, I do suggest packing an athletic dress—especially one tailored enough that it could be mistaken for a normal dress—to get away with being comfy and stylish on your Euro getaway. I utilized a similar style to this Amazon-loved one for a day spent exploring beaches in Corfu, off the coast of Albania, part of the Ionian Islands of Greece. With an oversized button-down shirt, I could go straight from the sunny shores to a moonlit dinner in town without having to stop back at the Airbnb. Though not technically a dress, a matching skirt set does so much for a travel wardrobe that it is worth the space in your carry-on. Many shoppers have given the Prettygarden Matching Skirt Set from Amazon their stamp of approval. You can wear the top with high-waisted white jeans, or try the skirt with a sleek black tank. Trust me on this one, I saw so many coordinating sets on the streets of Europe, from the golden capital of Malta to the balmy Dalmatian Coast, and this is one item I truly wish I had packed for my summer away. $178 at A COVID-era trend turned wardrobe staple, the nap dress is meant to be so comfortable you can actually nap in it. I'm a longtime fan of Hill House Home, and I own more than 20 of these pretty dresses in whimsical prints. For travel purposes, I prefer to pack a more classic nap dress, like the Ellie style, which matches more and is less memorable than a fussier or more elaborate print. Bonus: it's truly wrinkle-resistant, so you can avoid the iron and toss it on before exploring old town Kotor. Alternatively, Amazon has similar nap dress-inspired silhouettes at lower price points; check out the Zesica Plaid Square Neck Puff Sleeve Midi Dress and the Chouyatou Smocked Flounce Dress starting at $29. No bow, no go—Balletcore is very much in . I mean, did it ever really leave? To incorporate the trend into your travel wardrobe, I'd pick up this gorgeous fit-and-flare dress from Quince; it strikes the perfect balance between flowy and structured, so you can feel comfy and look put-together. I wore a similar dress nonstop during my Georgia trip, going from mountains to vineyards to the bustling capital city and back again. In terms of accessorizing this classic silhouette, snag one of these uber-popular Marzoline beauties that are handmade in Milan. Embrace the season with a warm, pastel-hued dress like this one from Petal & Pup. It's breezy enough to beat the heat, but modest enough to mimic cap sleeves when visiting cathedrals or religious sites. Plus, the maxi length keeps it modern and approachable, while the cotton poplin fabric means only natural fibers touch your skin. Though this shade isn't my usual cup of tea, I spotted it on plenty of other European travelers and locals alike. A classic combination for any Euro getaway is blue and white. You might associate the color palette with Santorini for its famous white buildings and contrasting blue domes, but the duo really works anywhere in Europe. Take this chic Quince pick for example. It's made with 100 percent linen, features a fit and flare style, and is a comfy midi dress length. It's practically begging for some island time. A pretty dress that showcases just a peek of skin is ever-so playful and flirty, but there are elegant ways to nail the look. Amazon shoppers love this billowy maxi dress, which has two modest side cut-outs, adding unique contrast to the classic square-neck, short-sleeve silhouette. You can also play with cut-outs more elegantly with a gown like this metallic floral maxi, which would make a great destination wedding guest dress. There's no denying Tenniscore's presence in 2025's list of summer trends. And, as luck would have it, the look makes for an effortlessly stylish travel outfit. A classic white tennis dress pick like this Amazon-loved one is an easy layering piece that is equal parts comfy and elevated with its corset details and exaggerated pleats for easy movement when walking the winding streets of Rome. Afraid of spilling gelato on the pristine shade? Opt for it in one of its other eight available colors. Okay, hear me out. I know this isn't technically a dress, but a cute jumpsuit can function the same way: throw it on, stay comfortable, and make the most of your Euro trip. Spanx makes the bottom half of my go-to travel outfit (hello, Booty Boost leggings), but I have seen the Oprah-loved brand's jumpsuit around more than any other item this year. It's made in regular, petite, and tall sizes, crafted from the softest material, and comes in four neutral colorways. Pair this jumpsuit with a cozy sweatshirt, like Oprah's favorite AirEssentials Half-zip, for the ultimate monochromatic travel set. Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week
Miami Herald
23-06-2025
- Miami Herald
Family travel 5: Have a backup in case the dream vacation plan evaporates
Busy family and work schedules can complicate trip planning. That's why the concept of 'trip stacking' is gaining popularity. Travelers book their dream trip but also craft a backup plan. It's an alternate, yet appealing, option in the event their first choice becomes untenable. Here are five ideas to consider. Dream trip: Cruise the Med Oh, to cruise the Mediterranean. While pondering a trip aboard a Royal Caribbean mega-ship, the kids have focused on the latest on-board amenities, including skydiving, virtual adventures, glow in the dark laser tag and bumper car showdowns. The adults have no problem imagining a stroll down ancient pathways and sipping local wines on the Amalfi Coast. With older kids in your crew, perhaps you see yourselves savoring the stunning views under the whipping cloth of a Windstar sailing ship. Backup plan: Relax on the river With no time for the big splashy trip, go low key in the Carolinas. With more than 3,000 miles of trout streams and 1,100 miles of hatchery-supported trout waters in the mountains alone, North Carolina is an outdoor lover's haven. It's also home to the nation's only designated fly-fishing trail, the Western North Carolina Fly Fishing Trail, which directs anglers to 15 prime spots in the Great Smoky Mountains to cast a line. Expect a variety of options from wide-open rivers to small, secluded streams. The heart of the trail, the Tuckasegee River, or the 'Tuck' as it's known to locals, is the county's largest body of water. Designed by two outdoorsmen and fly-fishing guides, the trail is an ideal way for fly-fishers of all skill levels and ages to learn the art of fly-fishing. For more: Dream trip: Epic theme park You've been saving to visit an iconic park like Disneyland in California or Universal Studios in Florida. The kids have yearned to explore Space Mountain and to experience Harry Potter's World of Magic. But if this isn't the year to stand in long lines, nudge to the front for the street parade or wait for the Hogwarts Express, then having a plan B makes sense. Backup plan: A U.S. national park Visit a lesser-known national park in northeastern Ohio for a heaping dose of Midwestern beauty. Cuyahoga Valley National Park comprises 33,000 acres, tucked along 22 miles of the Cuyahoga River between Cleveland and Akron. The winding river gives way to deep forests, rolling hills and open farmlands, punctuated by iconic views of covered bridges and cascading waterfalls. Plan for hikes or biking excursions along the historic route of the Ohio & Erie Canal. Ask about the Junior Ranger program, ranger guided options as well as educational resources, games and DIY activities and crafts that will enrich the family experience. For more: Dream trip: French art and history Your bucket-list trip to France would ideally include plenty of art and history. The Louvre and other important museums would be on the list. Perhaps a river cruise and a tour of a family owned-castle would fit the bill. A D-Day-focused educational tour of the beaches of Normandy -- including Omaha Beach and the American cemetery where more than 10,000 white crosses dot the landscape -- might be part of the plan. Backup plan: American adventure history If crossing the pond must wait, consider dipping into history stateside. Discover some of the last remaining natural stretches of America's longest river - the Missouri - while on the lookout for wildlife and scenic vistas and contemplating the significant history of the area. How might this river have appeared to Lewis and Clark when they navigated their way along the Missouri more than 200 years ago? You'll learn about the plants, animals and landscapes described in the Lewis and Clark journals and find out how the river has changed course over the years. Explore the Missouri National Recreational River, a national park unit consisting of relatively free-flowing segments of the storied river. For more: Dream trip: Luxury in Scottsdale, Arizona Checking into a luxury resort is a real treat, and a family stay at one of several in the Scottsdale area is no exception. At the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, a Sonoran Desert gem, families love the chance to dig toes in the sand at the Sunset Beach pool or join the festivities at the Sonoran Splash pool where water slides, music, games and dive-in movies increase the fun factor. Backup plan: Scottsdale home rental However, this may be the year your family chooses to dial it down a notch by booking a home rental in a resort area you are eager to visit. It might be easier to manage naps, teen sleep schedules or picky eaters in your own kitchen and expanded space. Still, you'll enjoy the many options including shopping, museums, golf, hiking and star-gazing that a resort destination, like Scottsdale, provides. For more: Your dream trip It's important to carefully consider all change and cancellation policies when planning your dream trip and a backup plan. Given life's demands and occasional curve balls, your best option may be to give your dream trip the opportunity to unfold when it will be most enjoyed by all. Your backup plan Sometimes the best backup plan is to stay in your home, sweet home, with a commitment to take advantage of the nearby restaurants, parks and other amenities you've always intended to visit. ________ Copyright (C) 2025, Tribune Content Agency, LLC. Portions copyrighted by the respective providers.
The Independent
23-05-2025
- Business
- The Independent
Cruise ships will sail from the Port of Dover this summer – with sailings to Norway, Malta, Portugal and more
Carnival Miracle is among cruise ships that have made inaugural calls in Kent this month as the Port of Dover prepares for its high season. Southampton may be the main UK port for cruises but Dover will have hosted four inaugural calls for ships during May and has five regular brands departing from its terminal, providing another departure option for UK passengers. Windstar's Star Pride and Ponant's Le Laperouse and Le Bellot ships stopped at the port for the first time this month, meaning more than 3,000 new guests have travelled into the region in May. The Port of Dover expanded its mooring facilities earlier this year to make room for larger ships and can now host three vessels at once. Peter Wright, head of cruise at the Port of Dover, said: 'We are thrilled to launch our 2025 season with Carnival and their guests, and to see another member of their fleet begin her set of nine turnaround calls this year. 'We also had the pleasure of welcoming both Star Pride and Le Laperouse for their debut calls. 'It was wonderful seeing these two unique ships moored alongside each other in front of the White Cliffs and making use of our wide-ranging facilities catering for different ship sizes and styles.' The Windstar and Ponant ships were only in port for a visit during longer sailings but there are a range of cruise brands departing from Dover in the coming months. Carnival Miracle The 2,670-capacity Carnival Miracle made its debut in Dover this month. The vessel is hosting British Isles sailings from the port after just coming out of drydock following a refresh that includes a new Heroes Tribute Bar & Lounge and Cloud 9 Spa. Passengers can also enjoy the ship's refreshed mini-golf course and eat at a new chef's table experience. Carnival Miracle will homeport in Dover until early August for a series of nine and 12-day itineraries across the British Isles, Scandinavia, the Baltics and northern Europe. Prices start from £747 per person for a nine-day Spain, Portugal and France cruise that departs on 30 May. Saga Cruises Over-50s brand Saga Cruises has regular departures from Dover aboard both Spirit of Discovery and Spirit of Adventure. Itineraries include sailings around Britain and Norway, including a seven-night Norwegian fjords summertime cruise departing on 15 August from £2,822 per person. Fred Olsen's 1,360-capacity Borealis is departing from Dover throughout the summer. Passengers can enjoy sailings to the Norwegian fjords, Iceland and the Azores region in Portugal Other highlights include its 11-night Malta and Scenic Sights of Croatia sailing, departing on 5 June from £1,299 per person. Seabourn Sojourn Luxury cruise brand Seabourn has six sailings from Dover until early August aboard its Sojourn ship, which caters for 458 passengers. Itineraries include sailings to Iceland and Norway as well as a seven-day Castles, Lochs and Scottish Highlands cruise departing on 2 August from £4,164 per person. Holland America Nieuw Statendam Holland America's Nieuw Statendam ship has several sailings from Dover until September. It marks Holland America Line's first UK season in 10 years, with the 2,666-guest ship.
The Advertiser
02-05-2025
- Automotive
- The Advertiser
A new cruise ship has scored pole position at the famous Monaco Grand Prix
The Netflix series Drive to Survive turned a lot of people into Formula 1 fans, but the motorsport has been linked to cruising for decades. The prestigious Monaco Grand Prix, held every May, is a popular part of luxury cruise itineraries. Windstar pioneered Grand Prix cruises in the 1990s, but a new line has scored pole position.
Yahoo
10-04-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Windstar Cruises and Crypto.com Arena Collaborate to Connect Live Entertainment Fans With Luxury Travel
New Relationship Expands Windstar's Presence in Los Angeles and Introduces Arena Guests to Exclusive Travel Experiences MIAMI, April 10, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Windstar Cruises (Windstar) has launched a new collaboration with AEG, the leading sports and live entertainment company. Brokered by AEG Global Partnerships, Windstar is now the official cruise line of AEG-owned and operated – Arena, Los Angeles' most iconic sports and entertainment venue. For over 25 years, Arena has hosted world-class performances and important special events that continue to bring international stature to the Downtown Los Angeles venue, including concerts by global superstars such as Taylor Swift, Bad Bunny, Beyoncé, Prince, U2, Paul McCartney, Garth Brooks, Usher, Jay-Z, Keith Urban, and more. In addition to being the home of the annual GRAMMY Awards since 2000, the arena is home to three professional sports franchises – the NBA's Los Angeles Lakers, NHL's LA Kings and WNBA's Los Angeles Sparks – and has been the site of multiple league championships and historic moments. Arena continues to be a premier destination for high-profile events and is slated to host the gymnastics competition at the upcoming 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games, further cementing its global significance. The new relationship expands Windstar's presence in a key West Coast market, while reinforcing its connection and commitment to working with brands within the Anschutz Corporation's world-class portfolio. "Following our recent collaboration with The O2 in London also owned by AEG, we are excited to expand Windstar's visibility at Los Angeles' legendary Arena. Los Angeles is one of our top markets and we will continue to grow our presence there among the community that has supported us throughout our 40-year history," said Windstar's President Christopher Prelog. "As leaders in our respective industries, this is a thrilling next step." As the official cruise line of Arena, Windstar will gain amplified brand exposure across the venue, including a model of one of its luxury ships on display year-round for visitors within the arena's Lexus Club. With this integration, Windstar will have the ability to reach new travelers and sports fans for the line's small-ship cruises to destinations such as French Polynesia, among others. Windstar representatives will be on site near the ship model in the Lexus Club to meet and talk to attendees on April 12, 2025, at the LA Kings game. Windstar's French Polynesia sailings are a favorite of residents living on the West Coast. An 8-hour direct flight from Los Angeles to Papeete, Tahiti quickly whisks travelers into a tropical paradise with itineraries ranging from the popular 7-day cruise in Tahiti's Society Islands to longer cruises exploring the Tuamotu and Marquesas Islands. The destination promises exhilarating fire dancer performances in Bora Bora to leisurely days spent diving into crystal-clear lagoons or relaxing on deck with a classic Mai Tai in hand. Windstar has been cruising to Tahiti for 37 years, and in 2027, will add a second year-round, 148-guest sailing yacht, "Wind Star," joining the 312-guest "Star Breeze" to give Los Angeles residents a choice between a classic sailing experience or all-suite yacht in French Polynesia. As part of this new relationship, fans will have the opportunity to participate in special promotions and travel sweepstakes, offering a chance to experience Windstar's luxury cruises firsthand. " Arena has a long history of collaborating with best-in-class brands that align with our mission of delivering unparalleled experiences for our fans and guests," said Lee Zeidman, President, Arena, Peacock Theater and L.A. LIVE. "We are proud to welcome Windstar Cruises as our official cruise line and look forward to bringing this relationship to life in a way that connects Windstar's premier travel experiences with our passionate guests." To plan a small ship cruise with Windstar book online here, contact a travel advisor, reach out to Windstar Cruises by phone at 866-258-7245 or request a call by a Windstar vacation planner. Find more information on Windstar Cruises here. Photos: Press images here. About Windstar Cruises: With a fleet of eight all-suite and sailing yachts serving up to 350 guests, Windstar Cruises offers an intimate experience like no other. Guests can explore enchanting destinations across Europe, the Caribbean, Costa Rica, the Panama Canal, Alaska, New England, Canada, Japan, Asia and the South Pacific. Plus, Windstar operates year-round in Europe and will offer two unique ship experiences in Tahiti starting in 2027. Windstar will introduce two new ships to its Star Class beginning with Star Seeker in December 2025 and followed by Star Explorer in December 2026. At Windstar Cruises, it's not just about travel – it's about creating experiences that resonate with the soul. With port-intensive itineraries, iconic destinations, exceptional service, and an innovative culinary program, every moment with Windstar is an opportunity for discovery and delight. Windstar Cruises is proud to be part of the Xanterra Travel Collection®, a distinguished group of global hospitality and travel companies with a legacy that spans over a hundred years operating our country's iconic national parks, including Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, Glacier, Death Valley, and many others. Xanterra Leisure Holding, LLC is owned by The Anschutz Corporation, the ultimate owner of the Broadmoor, Sea Island, and entertainment giant AEG, Anschutz Entertainment Group. About AEG: Headquartered in Los Angeles, California, AEG is the world's leading sports and live entertainment company. The company operates in the following business segments: Music through AEG Presents, which is dedicated to all aspects of live contemporary music performances, including the production and promotion of global and regional concert tours, an extensive portfolio of clubs, theaters and other music venues, concerts and special events and world-renowned festivals such as the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival; Venues and Real Estate, which develops, owns and operates world-class venues, as well as major sports and entertainment districts like Arena and L.A. LIVE, Uber Platz in Berlin and The O2 in London; Sports, as the world's largest operator of high-profile sporting events and sports franchises including the LA Kings, LA Galaxy and Eisbären Berlin; Global Partnerships, which oversees worldwide sales and servicing of sponsorships including naming rights, premium seating, and other strategic partnerships. And Ticketing, through its ticketing platform, which provides more than 400 clients worldwide with ticketing services that cover the gamut of entertainments, including sporting events, arena tours, music clubs festival, rodeos and family events. Through its worldwide network of venues, portfolio of powerful sports and music brands and its integrated entertainment districts, AEG entertains more than 90 million guests annually. More information about AEG can be found at View source version on Contacts Media Contacts: Windstar Cruises Sarah Scoltock, Director of Public Relations, Windstar Cruises Claire Skinner, LDPR, claire@ Arena Cara Vanderhook, Vice President, Marketing and Communications, cvanderhook@ AEG Global Partnerships, Shannon Donnelly, Sign in to access your portfolio
